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Aspire Quote by Oliver Goldsmith

“Religion does what philosophy could never do; it shows the equal dealings of Heaven to the happy and the unhappy, and levels all human enjoyments to nearly the same standard. It gives to both rich and poor the same happiness hereafter, and equal hopes to aspire after it.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith
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“Religion does what philosophy could never do; it shows the equal dealings of Heaven to the happy and the unhappy, and levels all human enjoyments to nearly the same standard. It gives to both rich and poor the same happiness hereafter, and equal hopes to aspire after it.”

Oliver Goldsmith

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Citizen of the World, 1760

Religion offers a universal promise of equal afterlife happiness, regardless of earthly status, contrasting worldly measures of success.

In simple terms: Religion promises equal afterlife happiness.

Key Takeaway

Seek spiritual equality over material status.

Themes

equality afterlife spirituality

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

ethical theological

When to use this quote

  • poverty relief
  • interfaith dialogue
  • ethical decision making
  • social welfare planning

Key Concepts

theology philosophy of happiness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view affect social justice?
  • Can equal afterlife promises motivate ethical behavior?
A Different Perspective

May overlook individual agency and diverse theological views.

3.9 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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